Senate backs pot decriminalization, sends to Sununu's desk

New Hampshire is on the path to joining its New England neighbors by decriminalizing possession of small amounts of marijuana

CONCORD, N.H. (AP) — New Hampshire is on the path to joining its New England neighbors by decriminalizing possession of small amounts of marijuana.

The state Senate passed legislation Thursday to remove criminal penalties for possessing up to three-quarters of an ounce of marijuana, sending it to Republican Gov. Chris Sununu's desk. He is likely to sign it.

Thursday's vote marks a major victory for advocates of marijuana reform, who have seen their attempts at decriminalization stymied for years in New Hampshire. Police chiefs have long been opposed, arguing marijuana use can lead to harsher drugs.

But backers of decriminalization say a marijuana charge can ruin a young person's life, potentially harming their ability to get a job. They say the police's resources are better spent fighting the state's opioid crisis.